Nicotine skin patches are used to help people stop smoking. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center reports that nicotine patches help to decrease nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Nicotine from the patch enters the bloodstream through the skin. The patch, while providing the body with some nicotine, secretes less nicotine than a person would inhale from smoking, and the patch does not contain the harmful chemicals, like tar and carbon monoxide, that cigarettes do. The patch is available for purchase over the counter without a prescription from a physician.
Nicotine Overdose
Patients are advised not to smoke cigarettes while wearing a nicotine skin patch, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. This is due to the potential for nicotine overdose as patients would receive nicotine from the patch and from the cigarette. Signs of nicotine overdose include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, weakness and rapid heartbeat. Patch users who decide they must have a cigarette while wearing the skin patch are instructed to remove the patch prior to smoking.
Irregular Heart Rhythms
Some users have experienced irregular heart rhythms and rapid heart rates while wearing the nicotine patch, according to Medline Plus. Users should be sure to report a history of cardiac arrest, irregular heart rhythms, chest pain and high blood pressure to their physicians prior to wearing the skin patch. Users experiencing irregular heart rhythms or rapid heart rates should consult their doctors immediately for further medical advice.
Skin Irritation
The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center reports that some skin redness is expected with use of the nicotine patch. Skin redness should go away within a day of removing the patch. If redness persists, or if redness is accompanied by swelling, hives, pain, or burning, wearers should contact their doctors for further medical advice.
